In a world where education opens doors, the Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme offers a remarkable opportunity for South African professionals to unlock their full leadership potential. Backed by the Irish Government’s Ireland Fellows Programme, this fellowship provides full financial support for eligible candidates to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland—a country known for its academic excellence and warm international outlook. Fully Funded Master’s Education in Ireland.
Selected fellows benefit from a comprehensive package that covers tuition, accommodation, flights, living expenses, and more. Typically running between 10 and 16 months, these master’s programmes begin each August or September and are hosted by top Irish higher education institutions.
Why the Kader Asmal Fellowship Stands Out
Unlike many scholarships, the Kader Asmal Fellowship is more than just financial support—it’s a transformational journey. It is specially tailored for early to mid-career professionals with strong leadership potential, particularly those dedicated to contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notably, the fellowship encourages participation from underrepresented groups, including women, minorities, and individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Areas of Study Include:
- Agriculture & Food Systems
- Health & Well-being
- Human Rights & Social Justice
- Education & Innovation
- Business & Entrepreneurship
- Engineering & Technology
- Environmental Science
These courses are carefully selected to align with national and international development priorities and are listed in the Directory of Eligible Programmes.
Eligibility at a Glance
To apply for the 2026/2027 academic year, you must:
- Be a South African resident national.
- Have at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record (minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale).
- Not currently holding or enrolled in a master’s or higher qualification.
- Demonstrate leadership ability, commitment to the SDGs, and intent to foster ties with Ireland.
- Choose three programmes from the official course directory that suit your background and goals.
- Be available to take up the fellowship in August 2026.
Inclusivity and Equal Opportunity
The Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme reflects Ireland’s global commitment to inclusivity and gender equality. It actively promotes participation from women, especially in STEM fields, and welcomes applicants from historically disadvantaged institutions.
Furthermore, applicants who identify outside the gender binary or who live with disabilities are encouraged to apply. By widening access, the programme aims to nurture a diverse and dynamic cohort of global changemakers.
Application Process and Timeline
Applications for the 2026–27 academic year are currently open. However, before requesting application forms, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria. Incomplete or ineligible submissions will not be considered.
If you meet the requirements, please contact the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa to ask for application materials and begin the next steps.
The Bigger Picture: Ireland’s Global Vision
The Kader Asmal Fellowship forms part of Ireland’s broader foreign policy efforts under Global Ireland, reflecting commitments to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Ireland’s Strategy for Africa to 2025.
Through this initiative, Ireland seeks to:
- Build long-term, positive relationships with emerging global leaders.
- Strengthen in-country capacity through education and leadership development.
- Promote institutional partnerships between Ireland and developing countries.
If you are an ambitious professional from South Africa who is ready to lead change, this fellowship could be the opportunity that reshapes your career and widens your global impact. Not only will you gain a top-tier education, but you’ll also become part of a growing network of global leaders with strong ties to Ireland. Don’t miss this chance to invest in yourself and your country’s future.
Deadline July 25
